MTV is holding open auditions for new Geordie Shore cast members, giving a new generation of permatanned Newcastle natives the chance to appear in the fourth series of the show.

Production is due to begin on the new series of the hard-partying programme this summer, but first there is going to be a shake-up of the cast.

MTV UK is holding open auditions for new Geordie Shore cast members

However, it is unclear whether this means viewers will be waving goodbye to Sophie, Gaz, Rebecca, James, Charlotte, Jay, Ricci and Vicky as bosses at the channel are remaining tight lipped about the new season.

Viewers who were inspired by Geordie Shore, which followed the lives of a group of young Northerners as they lived, argued and drank together, are invited to audition for the new series of the controversial show.

Since the show first burst onto screens last year, it has become MTV UK’s highest rating franchise to date, with viewers worldwide tuning in.

Kerry Taylor, senior vice president at Viacom UK & Ireland, commented: ‘It is fantastic to announce that Geordie Shore is coming back for a fourth series! The response to the show since it launched in May 2011 has been truly phenomenal – both from a ratings perspective and across our social media platforms.’